Deep Sockets?

[barrybeefburger]

Let me first say Im not a pro wrencher, I work on my own cars and small engines because I enjoy it.

My question is, in the above mentioned "fields", where do long/deep sockets come into play? the only time I can think of when Ive used one is when I need some clearance, not because the bolt is protruding so far through the nut that it procludes the use of a regular socket.

With the exception of lug nuts.

 

[Hugemoose]

Most times I find myself using them (I'm in the same "field" as you) is when I run across long studs on bolts. For instance, the T-bolts on my GTOs intercooler piping end up having lots of remaining thread as they get tight. Actually the V-band clamps on the hotside also have the same problem. Most times I can just use a ratcheting wrench, but if space is limited I need a deep socket.

It's also simply nice to have a duplicate of any size socket in the event you need both at once, or a buddy is working with you. This happens a lot with me. Hanging out working on cars and everybody's helping; sometimes it's just nice to have extra tools around.

I don't often need them, but it used to drive me nuts if I did need one and it was lost somewhere in the garage.

 

[mr.lemons]

I've had to use deep sockets to remove reverse light switches on fords. Had two mondeos previously and the switch failed on both of them. Not a mechanic so don't know if there are other bolt in sensors/switches like this.

 

[Tynee]

Suspension work often involves studs that have several threads left after the nit is tight. Exhaust work. Just a couple I can think of.

 

[Old Man Roger]

When a deep socket and extension is needed, nothing else will work.

 

[Richard Cranium]

spark plugs

 

[Tonyuk]

I use my deep sockets more than anything else, wheel bolts, studs, extra reach etc..

I couldnt work without them

 

[Citation]

I typically use them by default as the offset is often nice. I started using them because my basic tool set back in the day didn't have a short extention. So I typically found a shallow was too short. The shallow plus extension was too long. The deep was just right and meant I didn't mess with an extension.

 

[VinceG]

I work on Class 8 trucks. fuel tank mounts, bolts with stud on the end, Battery cables,battery hold downs, all kinds of other applications. also there are some extra deep sockets like these https://www.summitracing.com/parts/...RdbRrZT-AxKyjoAHgQvF0rrTXRc0pMUQaAv1EEALw_wcB

 

[crewchief888]

i usually grab a deepwell socket 1st,
unless i'm using my impact swivels.

only time i reach for a shallow socket is when i dont have enough room for a deep well....

 

[barrybeefburger]

Thanks fella`s

 

[M6erfan]

In the 'fields' you mention I usually default to deep sockets too, I like the clearance in lieu of a shallow + ext. However, since I picked up a mid depth set, I barely ever touch deeps anymore.

 

[Empty Pockets]

I use them in lieu of an extension to give me knuckle clearance away from a surface. And, occasionally need to have one for removing a nut from a long stud. Also, occasionally for reaching down into a deep countersink hole.

^^^^ Just what dave said. I have large hands and the extra clearance is a blessing

 

[Mr_B]

certainly a must have and taiwan sets on rail cheap enough and decent enough, no reason not get some in your most used drive size and see how you like using them and expand on them as required .

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

A short socket on an extension delivers about 20% less impact energy to the fastener than a deep socket.

 

[ex-x-fire]

I've been thinking of getting these from bang good.https://www.banggood.com/200mm-Leng...nch-Converter-p-1164022.html?cur_warehouse=CN

 

[rhandwor]

Removing the straps on gas tanks it saves a lot of time as you can use an impact wrench versus a combination wrench.

 

[bonneyman]

I use them in lieu of an extension to give me knuckle clearance away from a surface. And, occasionally need to have one for removing a nut from a long stud. Also, occasionally for reaching down into a deep countersink hole.

^^^^^

My only comment to add here is mid-length sockets. Some jobs need longer than a shallow for clearance but are just too tight for a deep. For most of what I do a mid-length socket isn't really necessary but for some knuckle clearance jobs they are perfect.

 

[bczygan]

Eventually you will find a need for most every tool...!

Bill

 

[Dentaltec]

I have recently started adding Semi Deep sockets and find them as my go to best of both worlds in many situations.

 

[Farleyfan]

The simi or mid depth socket set will be my next addition.
I have a few odd size mid length and use them whenever I can !

 

[Jimithing616]

Honestly it seems to be the non engine, DIY jobs that require the deep sockets more in my experience....

so many random things like putting together a shelf or whatever have bolts that protrude through the nut too far to use a shallow socket....

besides spark plugs, for which a spark plug socket in a couple sizes would be better than a deep set in metric and sae, not to mention a lot cheaper...

that’s really the only time I’ve NEEDED a deeper socket on an engine... other than that they can actually be a PITA because they don’t put pressure on the nut during install, unless of course you have ones like the snap on where the deep sockets have a shoulder to solve that issue (wish I had those)

I’m sure there are other uses but not in my work.... which for mechanicals is limited to motorcycles and small engines....

 

[2oolhound]

I like deep sockets so much I'm planing to get extra deep socket sets in both metric and sae in both 6 and 12 point and then get the same sets in semi deep too at which point I'll order the SK sets in chrome as well just as soon as I get another tool box. The 1/2" drive will probably have to lay flat in the tool box but the 3/8" should be ok. :eye crazy:

I'm just poking fun at the dizzying amount of tools a person can get. I've often wanted semi deep sockets but have made do without them. I'm sure some guys could put extra deep sockets to good use as well.

 

[Ji m]

Lug nuts come to mind since most lugs are longer than a typical nut or bolt,
so the deeper socket will engage with more of the "bolt" and be less likely to strip it out.

Like others said,
suspension bolts typically stick out further and can use the deep well to reach the nut.

If the sockets deep inside you also stand a chance of backing the bolt off into the socket as you back it off,
this helps with something like a leaf spring bolt where the bolt usually has to be spun out even after the nut is removed.